Ali Ka Naam – A Beloved Noha of Devotion
"Ali Ka Naam" is one of the most widely recited nohay in Shia households across Pakistan, India, and beyond. Its verses center on the love and reverence for Imam Ali (A.S.) and are often recited during Muharram and Safar majalis. Below you will find the full Urdu lyrics along with an English translation and a brief explanation of the themes within this elegy.
Urdu Lyrics (Roman Script)
- Ali ka naam leke nikle hain ghar se hum
- Hussain ka gham leke nikle hain ghar se hum
- Na koi humdum, na koi saathi, na koi yaar
- Teri mohabbat mein nikle hain ghar se hum
The above lines represent a common structure found in this style of noha — a declaration of devotion, a statement of sacrifice, and a surrender to divine love. The reciter speaks in the voice of a mourner who leaves home, carrying only love for the Ahlul Bayt (A.S.).
English Translation
| Urdu (Roman) | English Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ali ka naam leke nikle hain | We set out taking Ali's name |
| Hussain ka gham leke nikle hain | Carrying the grief of Hussain |
| Na koi humdum, na koi yaar | With no companion, no friend |
| Teri mohabbat mein nikle hain | We leave for the sake of Your love |
Themes in This Noha
1. Love for the Ahlul Bayt
The recurring invocation of Ali (A.S.) and Hussain (A.S.) is central to this noha. It expresses that all action — including leaving one's home — is motivated purely by love for the Prophet's family.
2. Solitude and Sacrifice
The phrase "na koi humdum, na koi saathi" reflects the loneliness of the mourner and echoes the historical isolation of Imam Hussain (A.S.) on the plains of Karbala, where his companions were few and the enemy was vast.
3. Mourning as Worship
In Shia tradition, reciting and listening to noha is considered an act of spiritual remembrance (zikr). This noha captures that spirit — mourning is not merely grief, but an active declaration of faith and loyalty.
When Is This Noha Typically Recited?
- During Muharram processions (juloos)
- At majalis (mourning gatherings) in the evenings of the first ten days of Muharram
- On Ashura (10th Muharram) as part of communal lamentation
- During Chehlum (Arbaeen) commemorations
Understanding the Language of Noha
Most classical nohay are composed in Urdu or Punjabi, though Persian and Sindhi nohay also hold a rich tradition. The language is often poetic and elevated — drawing from classical Urdu literary conventions such as takhallus (pen names), radif (refrain), and qafia (rhyme scheme). Understanding these elements deepens one's appreciation of the elegiac art form.
Whether you are searching for lyrics to follow along during a majlis, or hoping to understand the deeper meaning behind a noha you love, this resource aims to make these sacred elegies accessible to all.